Ornamental Metal Fabrication Training
Ornamental metal fabrication is a specialized type of metal fabrication that involves creating, assembling and welding decorative designs made from aluminum, steel, brass and other alloys.These ornamental designs are used on handrails, balconies, screen panels, wall designs, architectural details and artwork. Fabricating ornamental metalwork requires not only all the mechanical skills of standard metal fabrication, but also some artistic ability to arrange the metal into aesthetically pleasing designs.
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Aptitude
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Students interested in a career in ornamental metal fabrication should have mechanical ability and feel comfortable handling a number of shop tools as well as working with the heavy equipment involved in metalwork, such as welders, saws, grinders, cranes, punches and lathes. An interest in welding and the composition of metals is required, as is an ability to carefully follow welding and shop safety practices. Students should be in good physical condition and have no fear of heights. Some familiarity with math is desirable, and a good working knowledge of English. Skills in reading blueprints are a plus.
Training
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A high school diploma is generally the only formal education required of ornamental metal fabricators. A certificate from an accredited welding program, whether through a community college, industry organization training program, or private vocational school is desirable. The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers Union has a three- to four-year apprenticeship program, but many workers are trained informally on the job. Certification in welding can be achieved through the American Welding Society.
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Apprenticeship
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Ornamental metal fabricators often begin their careers with a paid, informal apprenticeship that includes doing a number of kinds of welding to gain experience in all kinds of metal joining. After this initial on-the-job training, the ornamental metal fabricator is moved into more complex welding tasks that requires refined welding and finishing techniques. In addition, methods and procedures for measurement and installation are learned on-site under the supervision of more-senior fabricators.
Employment
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that new job openings can be expected in this field as older workers leave the occupation or retire. Job opportunities are expected to be favorable, though the number of openings can fluctuate with general economic conditions. Median earnings for building exterior contractors in this field was $21 per hour in May 2008.
Entrepreneurship
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Many experienced metal fabricators pursue additional training in business and start their own ornamental metal shops or become partners in existing metal shops. Ornamental metal fabrication is often closely allied to the residential construction industry, and entrepreneurship can be lucrative in areas where there is a great deal of new construction.
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References
- Photo Credit Balcony image by annalovisa from Fotolia.com
